'Scarlet' to take to the catwalk

WITH raven hair accented by flame-red strands to match her perfect pout and piercing eyes that captivate the lens, petite Alicia Taylor is the epitome of a model.

Just don't call her one.

Inspired by the quirkiness and expression of vintage fashion, the Caloundra resident had a whole new world open up to her when a friend introduced her to the world of swing dancing, rockabilly and rock n roll festivals and pin-up modelling.

The 26-year-old has appeared as Scarlet Tinkabelle - her pin-up alter ego - in magazines including Inked Girls.

Her 50s-inspired beauty has seen her make it to the state finals of Miss Pin-up Australia.

Alicia will compete as Scarlet in the Miss Illustrated category, which is dedicated to women who have "permanent pieces of art work."

Working as a property manager for Stockdale & Leggo in Caloundra, Alicia has to cover up her unique tattoos during the day but regularly receives compliments from women when they are partly on display while working weekends at the Wharf Tavern.

But when Alicia transforms into Scarlet for photo shoots for various magazines, their full impact is breathtaking.

The Japanese kanji symbols for Peace, Love, Happiness were inked onto her ankle at the tender age of 18, but Alicia said her body was "a work in progress".

A full sleeve on her right arm, which began with a good luck leprechaun fairy and was transformed into an homage to family members, and an illustration of American war heroine Rosie the Riveter on her rib cage are her distinctive calling cards.

The state finals for the traditional beauty pageant competition include four catwalk categories and a talent segment.

The clincher will be contestant's ability to remain as their 40s and 50s-inspired characters at Tweed Heads on October 29.

"Scarlet and I are very similar. I am maybe a little less ladylike at some points," Alicia said.